How to Use the Paradox of Hedonism

Abstract

The paradox of hedonism is the idea that intrinsically desiring nothing other than pleasure can prevent one from obtaining pleasure. In this article, I show how the paradox of hedonism can be used as the basis for an objection against hedonism about well-being, and one that is more defensible than has been commonly recognized. Moreover, I argue that the challenge presented by the paradox can be used to target not only hedonism about well-being, but also desire satisfactionism and the hybrid theory. However, I argue that certain sophisticated versions of all three theories can escape it.

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“…Hedonism is a philosophical concept that prioritizes pleasure over other values (Dietz, 2021;Lelkes, 2021). Hedonism as "self-exciting pleasurable feelings" (Kim et al, 2010).…”

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“…As such, whether from a social, psychological, utilitarian or physical perspective, the central focus of hedonism is on the good life, one in which the balance of enjoyment over suffering is the greatest, thereby advancing a post-sensual argument (Roger 2006). However, the hedonist argument depends on the intrinsic value of experience in which the intrinsically good is considered as that from which pleasure is derived, while that which is intrinsically bad is that which gives displeasure (Dietz 2021). Following on this, some scholars consider hedonism as inferring that a pleasurable life determines a good life, in other words, that human behaviour is largely determined by pleasure-seeking, in contrast to ascetism, which involves an embrace of austere measures for living a disciplined life away from pleasure (Ruut 2003).…”

“…Eventually, the concept of hedonism becomes a paradox, resulting in unhappiness in old age when these destructive attributes become manifest. As Dietz (2021) puts it, the desire for pleasure thus constitutes an obstacle to accessing it. This negates the expectation of 'happiness as enjoying one's life' (Ruut 2003) and devalues the quest of making it an ultimate goal for living.…”